Description
This Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake is a creamy, fruity, and irresistibly delicious no-bake dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with a luscious cream cheese filling and a fresh strawberry swirl. The crunchy graham cracker crust pairs perfectly with the smooth filling, making this cheesecake a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups digestive or graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
For the Strawberry Swirl/Topping:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Optional: 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
Instructions
- Make the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Stir until well blended and press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to pack it down evenly. Place in the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Make the strawberry topping: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 6–8 minutes until the strawberries break down and release their juices. If you prefer a thicker topping, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 more minutes. Let it cool completely.
- Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy (about 2–3 minutes). Add the sugar, mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until fully combined and silky.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the banana-cream cheese mixture carefully to keep it light and fluffy.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the banana cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top. Spoon the cooled strawberry sauce over the surface, then swirl gently with a knife or skewer for a marbled effect, or spread as a topping without swirling.
- Chill and set: Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set and develop flavors.
- Serve: Once set, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice using a warm knife for clean cuts, and serve chilled. Optionally garnish with fresh banana slices or strawberries, adding banana slices just before serving to avoid browning.
Notes
- For best results, always use fully softened cream cheese to achieve a smooth filling.
- Using a warm knife to slice the cheesecake helps make clean slices.
- Add banana slices just before serving to prevent discoloration.
- If you want a firmer strawberry topping, do not skip the cornstarch slurry step.
- This cheesecake requires at least 6 hours of chilling, although overnight chill is ideal for texture and flavor.